The rampant spread of COVID-19 in the United States has caused a serious financial impact on the U.S. economy, as the stock market plunged amidst job losses and closed businesses. A glimmer of hope, though, has been the recent passing of legislation to help boost the American economy. The stimulus checks, which are part of a $2 trillion CARES act relief package, are set to help Americans who are unemployed or losing income due to COVID-19. Americans are receiving a $1,200 direct deposit or check from the IRS, assuming you meet the eligibility criteria.
Even though millions of Americans have received their payment, there are still many who have yet to see their stimulus check. If you find yourself in this category, there could be many reasons why you don’t have your check. We wanted to point out some common reasons why your check may not have arrived and what you can do to make sure it gets to you safely!
Late Processing
One of the top reasons why you may not have your stimulus check is due to late processing by the IRS. There are 150 million Americans who are eligible for the stimulus check, so not everyone will receive their payment at the same time.
The IRS first processed checks for those who opted for direct deposit in their 2018 or 2019 tax filings, and and then will cut checks for those who opted for a physical check in their tax filings. The IRS will be following a schedule of cutting checks that is based on income, estimated to be sending out 5 million checks a week. So while it can be difficultto be patient, keep in mind that these payments take time.
However, if you opted for a physical check on your 2018 or 2019 taxes, but would like to receive your stimulus check via direct deposit, there is a solution. The IRS recently released a web application called Get My Payment, where you can check on the status of your stimulus payment and update your information. Using this web app, you can request a direct deposit for your stimulus check if the IRS has not already issued your payment. Users can input their bank account information and update personal information for the IRS, making for a quick and easy process.
Current Bank Information
A lot of Americans are finding that checks are being deposited into closed bank accounts because the IRS does not have current bank account information. If the direct deposit information you used for your 2018 or 2019 taxes (depending on whether you have filed your 2019 taxes) is no longer in use, do not fret! You can still receive your money.
The best solution is to get ahead of the IRS and input your current bank account information on the Get My Payment web portal. This way, you can ensure your funds will reach you as fast as possible.
However, if the IRS tried depositing funds into a closed account, your bank has to send the funds back to the IRS, and the IRS will issue a paper check sent in the mail. This process can tack on more time to the process, so be patient if this happens.
To make sure you receive your payment at the right address, use the Get My Payment app to update your address and get your stimulus check as quickly as possible.
Did Not File in 2018 or 2019
Another reason why you haven’t received your stimulus check is because you did not file your taxes in 2018 or 2019. If you did file in 2018 and are not planning on filing in 2019, then the IRS needs updated information.
However, if you did not file taxes in 2018 or 2019, the IRS developed a web page where you can enter in information to make sure you receive your stimulus check.
Please note: If you receive disability, social security, railroad retiree or survivor benefits, the IRS will be sending you a check. You do not need to enter in your information on the web page or take action, as checks will be issued soon.
Learn More
In this confusing time, we want you to know that your Blackhawk Bank team is here for you. Are you interested in learning more about what Blackhawk Bank has to offer? Contact us today!
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